State Sen. Susan Garrett not seeking re-election

Garrett Will Not Seek Re-election in 2012
Lake Forest, Illinois - State Senator Susan Garrett (D-Lake Forest) announced today that her current term will be her last. She will serve out her term to completion and retire from public office in January 2013.

"After much soul-searching, I have decided that the time is right to move on. I am confident there will be qualified candidates to vie for this open seat, and that will give voters the opportunity to choose an excellent replacement," Garrett said.

"I have worked hard to do my best for almost fourteen years, providing the citizens of my district with fair and proactive representation. My underlying philosophy has always been to make government more open and accountable. I am a believer that citizens should have every opportunity to participate in local, state and federal government by providing input to their elected representatives, and I set up my office to encourage that process at the state level."

"Serving the citizens of my district as a state representative and state senator has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I am a public servant at heart," Garrett said.

Garrett began her political career in 1997 when she announced her campaign for the Illinois House in the 59th District - one of the most economically diverse districts in Illinois. In 2002 she was successful in winning election to the Illinois Senate. She was re-elected in 2004 and again in 2008 when she was appointed Majority Caucus Whip.

"Many people may want to know what my intentions are for the future. All I can say is that I will be totally engaged and focused on my Senate responsibilities until 2013. I want to thank everyone for the wonderful privilege to serve in the General Assembly. It has been an incredible honor," Garrett added.